Zambia has withdrawn from hosting the 2019 edition of the Under 23 Africa Cup of Nations due to lack of money.

Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) communications manager Desmond Katongo confirmed this in a statement today, saying the development followed consultations with the Ministry of Sports.

“FAZ wishes to inform all stakeholders and the public that Zambia has formally withdrawn from hosting the 2019 U-23 Africa Cup edition which was granted to the country by the Confederations of African Football (CAF),” Katongo said.

“FAZ decided to withdraw from hosting the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations edition after thorough consultations with the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Child Development. After these consultations with the Government, it has been concluded that the country is not in a position to host the tournament due to the current economic climate.”

Katongo thanked CAF for the opportunity.

“FAZ would like to take this opportunity to thank CAF for having shown confidence in the Association and the country at large to host a tournament of this magnitude,” said Katongo.